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Memories & Candles

“When you only see a person occasionally and not daily, you remember whether they were kind and friendly or dismissive. Orlene was in Arizona when I...Read More »
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1 of 3 | Posted by: Christine Grandon - Caddo Mills, TX

“You got your growth at an early age, I was somewhat later. I didn't like you (a girl) being able to hit a softball farther than me (a boy)!
I...Read More »
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2 of 3 | Posted by: Ed and Mary DeWees - Cedar Rapids, IA

“I met Orlina during a dark time in my life and she always made me feel that I was not alone, that someone recognized that I existed, and that I...Read More »
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3 of 3 | Posted by: Phyllis Doyle - Phoenix, AZ

OrlenaMaeBetzer, age 79, passed away September 19, 2012. She was born December 9, 1932 in Alburnett, IA to Orlin and Edna (Vernon) Iehl. She graduated from Springville School, was married to Richard Betzer on June 7, 1950 and went on to be an accomplished pianist and organist. Orlena taught many students to play the piano in Arizona and Iowa. She spent many years playing the piano and organ for the Springville United Methodist Church, Springville, IA and Shepherd of the Valley United Methodist Church, Phoenix, AZ.

Orlena is survived by her best friend Richard Betzer and their children Allen Betzer of Phoenix, AZ, Debra (Edward) Murphy of Marion, IA and Phillip (Joyce) Betzer of Phoenix, AZ; 6 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren. Memorial service will be held on Monday, September 24, 2012 at 4:00 pm at Shepherd of the Valley United Methodist Church, 3039 W Cactus Rd., Phoenix, AZ.

An additional memorial service will be held on Friday, October 5, 2012 at 3:00 pm at Springville United Methodist Church, 169 Broadway, Springville, IA. Pastor John Keizer will officiate. Inurnment will follow at Mt. Clark Cemetery, Central City, IA.

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Memories & Candles

When you only see a person occasionally and not daily, you remember whether they were kind and friendly or dismissive. Orlene was in Arizona when I met Deb, but when I saw her -- even though I was younger -- she treated me with friendship and kindness. I know Deb will miss her, and I certainly wish she could have remained with us much longer but in better health. I can see her now gathering her little puppy children to her for the final leg of her journey. Deb, my love to you -- keep your chin up.

I met Orlina during a dark time in my life and she always made me feel that I was not alone, that someone recognized that I existed, and that I mattered. She was the kindest, sweetest woman in all the world. Although we were never good friends, in recent years, we have crossed paths at the grocery store and kept up with the family news. I will miss her bright smile and the brief, friendly conversations. Her disposition lit up every room she entered. The world will miss the sunshine she brought to it.